GOLFERS of all standards, ages and sizes have travelled to the North-East over the years to try out some of the area’s finest courses.

Often where they go will be determined on reviews and word of mouth from others who have tested their swings on the fairways and greens, comparing the best and the worst.

That is why, every year, golfers across the country take notice and respect the list of Top 100 golf courses in England which is compiled by Today’s Golfer and Golf World.

A number of North Yorkshire, Durham and Northumberland’s golf clubs will dispute some of the findings, notably some of the beautiful or challenging courses which are overlooked, and the results posted this time around include just five from this region.

Ganton, near Scarborough, is the only one to be named in the top ten, while there is a big gap back to Seaton Carew’s 22 holes in 55th. There is also a new entry for Close House, which will host the ISPS PGA Seniors Championships this year.

But there is a long list of others – including the likes of Rockliffe Hall, Brancepeth Castle and Slaley Hall - to have missed out when Today’s Golfer’s mystery shoppers gathered their opinions based on strategic merit, presentation, memorable holes, playability, consistency of test and visual appeal.

These are North-East’s course which made the Today’s Golfer’s Top 100 in England.

No 8

Ganton, Par 73, 6,724 yards

This should be described more as an inland links than a heathland course given it has all the hallmarks of one which sits on the North Sea coast rather than inland near Pickering.

For that reason, Gary Player once suggested it was the only inland course worthy of hosting The Open. It’s littered with punishing bunkers and wrapped in gorse and heather, so provides a massive test.

No 55

Seaton Carew, Par 71, 6,603 yards

The great links is a regular in the Today’s Golfer top 100 list and it has moved up a place since last year. Its industrial Teesside background might not provide the finest of views, but you are warned to miss the Alister McKenzie designed course “off your wish list at your folly”. It is ranked as the best in Durham and Northumberland.

No 77

Fulford, Par 72, 6,743 yards

This has graced some of the greatest names in golf over the years, with Bernhard Langer’s tree shot to the side of the 17th in the Benson & Hedges International in 1971 famous worldwide. It boasts first class greens and some very good par fives.

No 85

Goswick, Par 72, 6,803 yards

With so many beautiful courses to visit along Northumberland’s North Sea coast, Berwick-upon-Tweed’s strong links is often overlooked because of its location just short of the Scottish border, where beyond there is a raft of exceptional links.

It has been an Open qualifier venue on many occasions and most of it sits on the same level, boasting an incredible view of the stunning scenery from the 15th tee.

No 89

Close House (Colt), Par 71, 6,813 yards

The Lee Westwood/Simon MacPherson designed course is a new entry following its opening in 2011. It is located in the picturesque Northumberland valley and its tee boxes, par threes and quality of bunkering all add to the experience.

Every tee shot asks a question and given its profile is on the rise and its determination to make Close House a Tour venue for years to come should ensure it only gets better.

Today’s Golfer’s Top Five in England

Royal Birkdale

Sunningdale (old)

Royal St George’s

Royal Lytham

Sunningdale (new)